Barren’s debut album, The Hanged Man out on October 31, is a visceral five track album that turns personal struggle into sonic intensity. Channelled through a doom/death metal fusion that’s both relentless and haunting, the New Jersey duo of Andrew Campbell and Nick Bonsanto deliver an unfiltered look at the lows of addiction and despair. Rather than just narrating these dark experiences, Barren immerses one into an oppressive atmosphere. The record’s real triumph lies in its ability to feel both raw and carefully constructed with each track guiding one through a profound and turbulent journey.
Opening with the track “Unheard,” Barren immediately sets an uncompromising tone. The guitars grind through oppressive riffs as Andrew’s guttural vocals communicate isolation and fear. From there, “Death Interrupted” provides an electrifying shift that captures the life-altering shock of survival with Sabbath-inspired grooves that push the momentum forward. In “Ruminations,” the album slows again, mirroring the cyclical nature of addiction with sprawling, almost hypnotic soundscapes. Guest guitarist Peter Hraur of LÖR adds texture to the centrepiece track, “L’appel du Vide,” which builds tension with intricate guitar work before exploding into a furious release.
Barren’s instrumentation reflects the harrowing experiences that inspired The Hanged Man. They move between crushing riffs and moments of quiet unease. Andrew’s DIY approach to production at Skull House Studio amplifies the rawness by creating a lo-fi authenticity that suits the album’s themes. Nick’s drumming shifts seamlessly from intense blasts to restrained and meditative pacing that reinforces each story with precision.
The Hanged Man might leave one feeling unsettled, yet wholly captivated. Barren’s story is one of survival and turning pain into power, and The Hanged Man captures this with weight, fury, and, ultimately, undeniable honesty.
